Chris Scott is the director of The Last Rose. Against her mother’s wishes, a girl dates a guy that leads to her contracting HIV and ultimately her death.
1. Who are your film influencers?
There are many amazing filmmakers of our times. I have directed many plays, but when I ventured into film, I really started observing Regina King and the works of Zora Neal Hurston. These two filmmakers are women who created a lane of their own. Although Judi Ann Mason was a writer, I have been influenced by her works as a television writer, producer, and playwright, such as “Good Times”, “Sister Act 2” and many more. Her writing made room for the director to create phenomenal work.
2. What are the toughest aspects of making a film today?
For me, one of the toughest aspects is finding the capital for a quality film project. The talent is there, but without the funds to appreciate a great cast and crew makes directing and producing more difficult.
3. Best advice you’ve received as a filmmaker?
The best advice I have received as a filmmaker is to keep going. Don’t become discouraged and make sure you learn every aspect of filmmaking you can. Learn about lighting, and cameras and be involved in post-production. Don’t let the editor determine the outcome of the vision. My good friend Charmin Lee taught me this.
4. What does it mean to you to be a Black filmmaker or to create films with black stories or characters.
Being a Black filmmaker and creating films with black stories and characters means a great deal to me. I think it is important to tell stories about us, by us. If we don’t tell our stories, they maybe told in a manner that does not tell our “TRUTH”.
5. What does it mean to you that your film is on Aspire TV and other platforms?
My film being on Aspire TV is a major accomplishment and opportunity for me and other filmmakers. I have followed Aspire for many years now and I consider it an honor to be the first platform for “The Last Rose.” Aspire displays quality programming that tells our stories in a variety of ways with a unique dimension. I love the quality and family-friendly atmosphere.
6. Advice you would give the next gen following you?
I would give advice on the importance of learning the craft. Study as much as you can and make sure to seek a mentor that can tell you the truth. Also, respect those who have paved the way for us to be able to tell our stories. Study their styles, but don’t copy them. Find your unique way of delivering quality work. When people see your work, they should see your signature all over it.
7. Are there any inspirational films, articles or books that you would recommend to go deeper into the topics and themes in your film?
The Last Rose was created many years ago, but this subject of HIV/AIDS is still prevalent today. With COVID-19 at the forefront in our World today, in some ways we have lost sight of sexually transmitted diseases amongst young people and their plights of such. While there are many books that can help our young people today, there is nothing like a community of family and outreach organizations. Mentorship programs are key in leading our young people today. It is key that parents build strong communication with their children, especially teenagers. Reading up on statistical data is also necessary for deeper study on this subject. Together with my co-director Alice Adams- Johnson and co-writer Ernestine Wright, we had to do extensive research. The storyline is real as Earnestine Wright’s sister and one of my Aunts were victims of HIV/AIDS and lost their lives as at a very young age.
